Collectible Now: DialoguesPerriand | Prouvé | Schmitt

Eric Schmitt believes in the power of silent design that speaks through its enduring presence. His reluctance to overtly reveal himself in his creations underscores a humility that allows the objects to tell their own stories. The pursuit of almost indestructible creations positions his work as potential relics of a future civilization, inviting a timeless quality that transcends the ephemeral nature of trends. Charlotte Perriand (1903-1999) dedicated herself to creating functional living spaces, guided by the belief that better design contributes to a better society. Perriand fearlessly stepped into a predominantly male domain, becoming one of the first female designers to forge collaborations with prominent male figures like Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret. Her global travels and collaborations, particularly with artists like Jean Prouvé, demonstrate a commitment to cross-cultural influences, enriching her designs with diverse perspectives. Jean Prouvé (1901-1984) a pioneering figure in post-war modernism, contributed significantly to the development of systems of mass production and played a key role in the evolution of architecture. His background in metallurgy, coupled with his educational endeavours and architectural contributions like the Musée des Beaux-Arts du Havre, underscores a holistic approach to design that goes beyond individual pieces, encompassing entire structures and environments. These three visionaries share a commitment to functional design, societal betterment, and enduring solutions. Their work blends form and function, transcends time, and inspires reflection on design's lasting impact.